Jungle Jeanie By the Sea - Hopkins Village, Belize

About Us

Hi,Meet your friendly hosts, John and Jeanie Barkman! John and Jeanie are originally from Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada where they enjoyed an extensive back ground in the hospitality industry. They first came to Belize in 1989 to invest as a business partner in a venture in Ladyville. They quickly fell in love with the country, it's beautiful climate and most of all, the Belizeans themselves. Following their successful venture in Ladyville, they managed a hotel in Belize City, all the while searching the country for that perfect piece of paradise where they could build their own resort for family and friends.

Their dreams were fulfilled 2003 when they found a fabulous property close to the Garifuna village of Hopkins. Featuring a white sand beachfront located on the Caribbean Sea on one side, and unspoiled tropical jungle on the other, John and Jeanie knew this was the place for their "Enviro Friendly" resort. After getting approval from their two junior partners (Volga and Zena – pictured above with John and Jeanie, they’re the ones with four legs!) they created Jungle Jeanie's by the Sea.

In addition to their hospitality experience, John and Jeanie have a variety of interests that they bring to Belize. Their love of animals has helped establish the "Hopkins Bitte Humane Society". Jeanie, an active participant in adventure sports her whole life, has run races in Belize City, completed the La Ruta Maya River Canoe Race, and has climbed Victoria Peak, the highest mountain in Belize.

John's interest in the culinary arts has made him "Chief Chef" at the resort. He is constantly trying new recipes using Belizean grown products. He is well known for his famous crepes served with Sea Grape syrup and jam. In addition, John makes his own sauces and jams with assorted locally grown fruit.

It is important to John and Jeanie that your Belizean experience be a memorable and enjoyable one. Their extensive knowledge of the area, the culture, the tours, the tour operators and the people ensures that whether you are a first time traveler to Belize, or an experienced veteran, you will be treated first rate.

"We really appreciate our clients who choose Jungle Jeanie's, By The Sea " Jeanie adds with a smile. "When you stay with us, we treat you like family."